Two island groups awarded grants for programs targeting seniors

SYDNEY — Two Cape Breton groups are among 15 from across the province to receive funding for projects designed to help seniors feel safer and be able to live more comfortably and independently.

The senior safety grant program offers support for non-profit groups that educate and raise awareness of senior abuse, prevent crime, and encourage the overall health and safety of Nova Scotia seniors.

“Nova Scotia’s seniors have told us they want more options to stay in their homes longer,” Education Minister Ramona Jennex said on behalf of Seniors Minister Denise Peterson-Rafuse.

“By protecting Nova Scotia seniors from injury and harm, we are making life better for them and supporting their efforts to remain independent.”

The Association for Safer Cape Breton Communities, covering Cape Breton County, and the Eskasoni Elder Society have each been awarded $20,000 grants for their programs.

The association is mandated to develop a comprehensive community safety plan aimed at preventing crime and victimization.

Grants are used to provide information or services directly to seniors in their homes, or through group presentations and workshops at other locations within the community. This includes one-on-one visits from safety co-ordinators, seminars with professional experts, and the production of various materials.

In order to qualify, programs must demonstrate financial or in-kind community support. The program also emphasizes better communication between seniors and the police.

“This funding allows the RCMP to continue to expand and enhance this modern and innovative-grass root service model throughout the province,” said RCMP Supt. Sylvie Bourassa-Muise.

“The community and RCMP membership benefit from this mechanism that fosters open communication between seniors and police. It is a great preventative tool which helps police deliver a holistic response.”

Justice Minister Ross Landry noted that crime prevention happens at the community level and having police and community organizations work together is a powerful way to make life better for vulnerable seniors.